Technology is quickly changing the face of professional services such as painting and color selections. Most major paint manufacturers now offer consumers a handy phone app to simplify the often angst-ridden process of choosing a color. As professional painters in Northern Virginia, we’ve seen how these apps are making it easy to color match when you find a color you like but don’t know the name, select a color from their palette, and even “try” a color in a room scene to give you a good idea of how it might look.
Keep in mind that not all computer screens or smartphones display color the same. There’s like to be some variations between what you see on screen and the actual paint color on your wall.
Here are three apps to try out. Each retailer’s web site also provides an online version of the app.
ColorSnap Visualizer from Sherwin Williams
Benjamin Moore Color Capture® App
Any painter can tell you that often times the toughest part of painting is color selection. It can be intimidating to select a color and ask your painter to put it up for you! With any of these apps, however, it’s easier to pick or match a color and see it in a mock-up of a room. If you live in Northern Virginia and would like some help with your next painting project, we are a trusted professional painting service and we would enjoy working with you.
Paint color apps are digital tools that allow homeowners to visualize different paint colors on their walls using photos or virtual rooms. These apps help users experiment with color schemes, compare shades, and make more confident decisions before purchasing paint.
Yes, most paint color apps let you upload a photo of your room and digitally apply different paint colors to the walls. This feature helps you see how various shades will look in your actual space, taking into account lighting and decor.
Many paint brands and independent developers offer free paint color apps. These apps typically include features like color matching, virtual painting, and access to a wide range of color palettes at no cost.
While paint color apps provide a close digital representation, actual paint colors may appear slightly different on your walls due to lighting, wall texture, and device screen settings. It is always recommended to test a physical paint sample before making a final decision.
Yes, several paint color apps include a color matching feature. You can take a photo of an existing color in your home, and the app will suggest the closest paint shades available from various brands. This is useful for touch-ups or coordinating new colors with existing ones.

Mike Katounas is the owner of Home Works Painting, a painting business in Northern Virginia. He has over 15 years of experience in residential interior and exterior painting, drywall installation/repair, carpentry, wallpaper removal, power washing, commercial painting, color consultation, and staining/sealing. Their service areas include Chantilly, Fairfax, Herndon, Oakton, Reston. Mike takes pride in his work, and he always follows a strict code of conduct that includes the use of quality paint, a clean workspace, and an honest, respectful approach to his customers.